If you’ve ever been lucky enough to travel to Portugal, you will undoubtedly be familiar with one word, even if you don’t speak the local language. “Bacalhau,” the local word for cod, is all over Portuguese restaurant menus because it’s arguably the country’s favorite food.
Traditional preparations of this food abound despite modern twists which have been put on it, and there are plenty of ways that you can enjoy this food in its most traditional forms. Here are three to keep in mind.
Bacalhau a Bras
Bacalhau a Bras is the most common Portuguese cod preparation. Cod is mixed with eggs, potatoes, and green olives to make this dish which sounds strange, but tastes absolutely delicious. Even if you aren’t a fish lover, this plate’s subtle, unique flavor is likely to win you over.
Bolinhos de Bacalhau
Another traditional manner of enjoying cod in Portugal is by putting it into balls of dough, frying them, and creating the delicious “bolinhos” which are sold in restaurants and roadside stands all around the country. Potatoes, parsley, eggs, and onion are the main components of these little balls.
Bacalhau Assado na Brasa
Served with small roasted potatoes, this grilled version of cod is great for fish lovers, as it allows the cod’s flavor to really shine through. Garlic is the main flavor driver in this dish, which is typically enjoyed in the summertime.
